Step 1: Prep Your Equipment

• Preheat oven to 325° (160°C) first.
• To make for easy removal and little clean-up, line a 12-count muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter and sugar. Mix until the texture is similar to wet sand.
2. Add about a tablespoon of the crumb mixture in each cup of the cupcake liners. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a small drinking glass to press down firmly to make a compact crust.
3. Bake crust for 5 minutes, remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat your softened cream cheese with no lumps remaining.
2. Stir in the sugar until completely incorporated.
3. Add the vanilla extract, then the eggs one at a time. It is important to scrape down the sides of the bowl and make sure everything is blended properly.
4. Finally, stir in the sour cream, mixing only until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Pour or spoon the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled crusts. Fill each liner nearly to the top, reserving a little space for the toppings.
2. Gently place 3-4 fresh raspberries in the center of each cupcake that is now filled.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 350 (180). When shaken, they should have a slight jiggle but not look wet.
2. Take the cupcakes out of the oven and let them cool in the muffin tin down to room temperature. Then move them to the fridge and chill for a minimum of 2 hours (or overnight).

Step 6: Make the Final Adjustments

1. Let cool, then dust the tops with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh raspberries before serving.
2. Serve right away or keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.

How to Serve Raspberry Cheesecake Cupcakes

These cupcakes are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Straight from the Fridge: You want them chilled for the best creamy, refreshing bite.
• Fancy Dessert: You can also top it off with a dollop of whipped cream or some raspberry coulis for a more elegant look.
• Party Treat: Arrange on a platter, garnish with mint leaves for a pop of colour.
• Pair It: With a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a match made in heaven.